10701637

Transceiver, transmitter, receiver and method for determining a minimum supply voltage for receivers and transmitters

PublishedJune 30, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
20 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A transceiver, comprising: a transmitter configured to generate a test signal; a receiver comprising a measurement circuit configured to receive the test signal from the transmitter and to determine a level of the test signal; a controller configured to control a variable supply voltage generator to set a supply voltage for the transmitter to a predetermined value and to adjust a supply voltage for the receiver until the level of the test signal within the receiver falls below a receiver threshold; and a storage element configured to store the supply voltage corresponding to the receiver threshold as the minimum supply voltage for the receiver.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system designed to optimize power consumption by dynamically adjusting supply voltages for the transmitter and receiver components. The transceiver includes a transmitter that generates a test signal, a receiver with a measurement circuit to evaluate the signal level, and a controller that manages voltage adjustments. The controller sets the transmitter's supply voltage to a predetermined value and then adjusts the receiver's supply voltage until the test signal level falls below a predefined receiver threshold. The voltage at this point is stored as the minimum required supply voltage for the receiver, ensuring efficient power usage while maintaining signal integrity. The system avoids overpowering the receiver, reducing energy consumption without compromising performance. The invention addresses the challenge of balancing power efficiency and signal quality in wireless communication devices, particularly in battery-powered applications where minimizing energy use is critical. The transceiver's adaptive voltage control mechanism ensures optimal operation under varying conditions, enhancing overall system efficiency.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The transceiver of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to control the variable supply voltage generator to set the supply voltage for the receiver to the minimum supply voltage for the receiver and to adjust a supply voltage for the transmitter until the level of the test signal within the receiver falls below a transmitter threshold; and wherein the storage element is further configured to store the supply voltage corresponding to the transmitter threshold as the minimum supply voltage for the transmitter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system with adaptive power management for optimizing energy efficiency in wireless communication devices. The problem addressed is the excessive power consumption in transceivers, particularly in battery-powered devices, due to fixed or suboptimal voltage settings for transmitter and receiver components. The transceiver includes a variable supply voltage generator that dynamically adjusts the supply voltage for both the transmitter and receiver circuits. A controller monitors the performance of these circuits and adjusts the voltages to minimize power usage while maintaining signal integrity. Specifically, the controller sets the receiver's supply voltage to its minimum operational level and then incrementally reduces the transmitter's supply voltage until the received test signal falls below a predefined threshold. The voltage at this threshold is stored as the minimum operational voltage for the transmitter, ensuring optimal power efficiency without compromising communication quality. This approach allows the transceiver to operate at the lowest possible voltages that still meet performance requirements, reducing overall power consumption. The system is particularly useful in portable or IoT devices where energy efficiency is critical. The adaptive voltage control mechanism ensures that the transceiver operates at the most efficient power levels under varying environmental and operational conditions.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The transceiver of any of claim 1 , wherein the transmitter is configured to operate in a normal mode generating a payload signal and in a test mode generating the test signal.

Plain English Translation

A transceiver system is designed to facilitate wireless communication while also enabling self-testing capabilities. The system includes a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter can operate in two distinct modes: a normal mode and a test mode. In normal mode, the transmitter generates a payload signal for standard communication purposes. In test mode, the transmitter generates a test signal specifically for evaluating the performance of the transceiver. The test signal may be used to verify signal integrity, transmission quality, or other operational parameters of the transceiver. The receiver is configured to process both the payload signal and the test signal, allowing for continuous monitoring and validation of the transceiver's functionality. This dual-mode operation ensures that the transceiver can maintain reliable communication while also performing self-diagnostics to detect and address potential issues. The system is particularly useful in applications where uninterrupted communication is critical, such as industrial automation, medical devices, or military communications, where system reliability and self-testing capabilities are essential.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The transceiver of claim 1 , wherein the transmitter is configured to enter into test mode when a configuration of the transceiver is changed and to return into normal mode after the minimum supply voltage for the receiver has been saved.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system designed to optimize power efficiency and reliability in communication devices. The transceiver includes a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter is configured to dynamically adjust its operating mode based on system conditions. Specifically, the transmitter enters a test mode when the transceiver's configuration is modified, allowing for real-time validation of the receiver's performance under new settings. During this test mode, the transmitter monitors the receiver's minimum supply voltage requirements. Once the minimum supply voltage for the receiver is determined and saved, the transmitter automatically reverts to normal operating mode, ensuring optimal power consumption while maintaining communication integrity. This adaptive behavior prevents potential failures due to insufficient power supply during configuration changes, enhancing overall system robustness. The transceiver may also include additional features such as a power supply circuit to regulate voltage levels and a control unit to manage mode transitions, ensuring seamless operation across different configurations. The invention is particularly useful in low-power wireless communication systems where energy efficiency and reliability are critical.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The transceiver of claim 1 , wherein the transmitter is configured to enter into test mode when a carrier frequency allocation of the transceiver is changed and to return into normal mode after the minimum supply voltage for the receiver has been saved.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless transceivers, specifically addressing the challenge of ensuring reliable operation during carrier frequency reallocation. The transceiver includes a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter is designed to automatically switch into a test mode when the carrier frequency allocation is modified. During this test mode, the transceiver evaluates the minimum supply voltage required for the receiver to function properly at the new frequency. Once this minimum voltage is determined and stored, the transmitter exits the test mode and returns to normal operation. This ensures that the receiver operates within safe voltage parameters after frequency changes, preventing potential performance degradation or failure. The system may also include a controller to manage the frequency allocation and voltage monitoring processes, ensuring seamless transitions between modes. The invention aims to improve transceiver reliability and efficiency by dynamically adjusting to frequency changes while maintaining optimal power supply conditions for the receiver.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The transceiver of claim 1 , further comprising an Analog to Digital Converter in the receiver, the Analog to Digital Converter being configured to provide a digital representation of an analog baseband signal, wherein the supply voltage is used for the Analog to Digital Converter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to transceivers with improved power efficiency. The problem addressed is the high power consumption of transceivers, particularly in battery-powered devices, due to inefficient analog-to-digital conversion in the receiver. Traditional transceivers often use separate power supplies for different components, leading to redundant power conversion stages and increased energy waste. The transceiver includes a receiver with an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) that converts an analog baseband signal into a digital representation. The ADC operates using the same supply voltage as other components in the transceiver, eliminating the need for an additional power supply. This reduces power conversion losses and simplifies the power management system. The ADC is optimized to work efficiently within the existing voltage range, ensuring accurate signal conversion while minimizing energy consumption. By integrating the ADC into the transceiver's power supply architecture, the design achieves lower overall power consumption without compromising performance. This is particularly beneficial for portable and IoT devices where energy efficiency is critical. The solution also reduces circuit complexity and cost by eliminating redundant power regulation stages.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The transceiver of claim 1 , further comprising a Digital to Analog Converter in the transmitter, the Digital to Analog Converter being configured to provide an analog representation of a digital baseband signal, wherein the supply voltage is used for the Digital to Analog Converter.

Plain English Translation

A transceiver system includes a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter converts digital baseband signals into analog signals for transmission. The system incorporates a Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) in the transmitter, which generates an analog representation of the digital baseband signal. The DAC operates using a supply voltage provided by the transceiver, ensuring efficient signal conversion. The transceiver may also include a power amplifier in the transmitter to amplify the analog signal before transmission, and a low-noise amplifier in the receiver to amplify received signals. The system may further include a local oscillator to generate reference signals for frequency conversion in both the transmitter and receiver. The transceiver is designed to handle high-frequency signals, such as those in wireless communication systems, and may include additional components like filters and mixers to process the signals. The use of a shared supply voltage for the DAC and other components optimizes power efficiency and reduces complexity in the transceiver design. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring compact, low-power transceivers, such as mobile devices and IoT systems.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The transceiver of claim 1 , further comprising a Local Oscillator circuit configured to provide at least one Local oscillator signal, wherein the supply voltage is used for the Local Oscillator circuit.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system, specifically addressing power management in wireless communication devices. The transceiver includes a power supply circuit that generates a supply voltage for various components, including a Local Oscillator (LO) circuit. The LO circuit produces at least one local oscillator signal, which is essential for frequency conversion in wireless communication. The supply voltage from the power supply circuit is directly used to power the LO circuit, ensuring stable and efficient operation. The transceiver may also include a power amplifier for signal transmission and a low-noise amplifier for signal reception, both of which may be powered by the same or a different supply voltage. The LO circuit's integration with the power supply ensures that the oscillator signals maintain precise frequency stability, which is critical for accurate signal modulation and demodulation in wireless communication systems. This design optimizes power efficiency and reduces complexity by leveraging a shared power supply for multiple critical components.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The transceiver of claim 1 , further comprising a variable supply voltage generator configured to generate the variable supply voltage.

Plain English Translation

A transceiver system is designed to optimize power consumption in wireless communication devices by dynamically adjusting the supply voltage to a power amplifier based on operating conditions. The transceiver includes a power amplifier that amplifies a radio frequency (RF) signal for transmission, and a variable supply voltage generator that produces a variable supply voltage to power the amplifier. The variable supply voltage is adjusted in response to changes in the RF signal's characteristics, such as output power level or modulation scheme, to reduce energy consumption while maintaining performance. The system may also include a controller that monitors the RF signal and adjusts the variable supply voltage generator accordingly. By dynamically adjusting the supply voltage, the transceiver achieves efficient power usage, extending battery life in portable devices. The variable supply voltage generator may use techniques such as envelope tracking or average power tracking to generate the optimal voltage level for the amplifier. This approach ensures that the power amplifier operates at the lowest possible supply voltage required for the current transmission conditions, minimizing wasted energy. The transceiver may also include additional components, such as a power detector or a digital predistortion module, to further enhance efficiency and linearity. The overall system provides a flexible and adaptive solution for power management in wireless communication devices.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. A transceiver, comprising: a transmitter configured to generate a test signal; a receiver comprising a measurement circuit configured to receive the test signal from the transmitter and to determine a level of the test signal; a controller configured to control a variable supply voltage generator to set a supply voltage for the receiver to a predetermined value and to adjust a supply voltage for the transmitter until the level of the test signal within the receiver falls below a transmitter threshold; and a storage element configured to store the supply voltage corresponding to the transmitter threshold as the minimum supply voltage for the transmitter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system designed to optimize power consumption by dynamically adjusting supply voltages for the transmitter and receiver components. The transceiver includes a transmitter that generates a test signal, a receiver with a measurement circuit that evaluates the test signal's level, and a controller that manages voltage adjustments. The controller sets the receiver's supply voltage to a predetermined value and then adjusts the transmitter's supply voltage until the test signal level in the receiver drops below a predefined transmitter threshold. The corresponding transmitter supply voltage at this threshold is stored as the minimum required voltage for the transmitter, ensuring efficient operation while maintaining signal integrity. This approach allows the transceiver to operate at the lowest possible supply voltages, reducing power consumption without compromising performance. The system may also include additional components, such as a variable supply voltage generator, to facilitate these adjustments. The invention addresses the challenge of balancing power efficiency and signal quality in wireless communication devices by dynamically determining optimal voltage levels for transmitter and receiver circuits.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The transceiver of claim 10 , wherein the controller is further configured to control the variable supply voltage generator to set the supply voltage for the transmitter to the minimum supply voltage for the transmitter and to adjust a supply voltage for the receiver until the level of the test signal within the receiver falls below a receiver threshold; and wherein the storage element is further configured to store the supply voltage corresponding to the receiver threshold as the minimum supply voltage for the receiver.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system designed to optimize power consumption by dynamically adjusting supply voltages for both the transmitter and receiver components. The transceiver includes a variable supply voltage generator, a controller, and a storage element. The controller is configured to set the transmitter's supply voltage to its minimum operational level and then adjust the receiver's supply voltage while monitoring a test signal within the receiver. The adjustment continues until the test signal's level falls below a predefined receiver threshold, indicating the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation. This minimum receiver supply voltage is then stored in the storage element for future use. The system ensures that both the transmitter and receiver operate at the lowest possible supply voltages that still maintain functionality, thereby reducing overall power consumption. This approach is particularly useful in low-power applications where energy efficiency is critical, such as in wireless communication devices or IoT sensors. The invention addresses the challenge of balancing power efficiency with performance by dynamically determining and applying the minimum necessary supply voltages for each component.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The transceiver of claim 10 , wherein the transmitter is configured to operate in a normal mode generating a payload signal and in a test mode generating the test signal.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system designed for wireless communication, addressing the need for efficient signal transmission and testing within a single device. The transceiver includes a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter is capable of operating in two distinct modes: a normal mode and a test mode. In the normal mode, the transmitter generates and transmits a payload signal containing data for communication purposes. In the test mode, the transmitter generates a test signal used for evaluating the performance of the transceiver or associated components. The receiver is configured to process incoming signals, including both payload and test signals, to ensure proper functionality. The system may also include a controller that manages the switching between the normal and test modes, allowing for seamless transitions based on operational requirements. This dual-mode capability enhances diagnostic capabilities and system reliability without requiring separate testing equipment. The invention is particularly useful in applications where real-time performance verification is critical, such as in telecommunications, radar, or industrial automation systems.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The transceiver of claim 10 , wherein the transmitter is configured to enter into test mode when a configuration of the transceiver is changed and to return into normal mode after the minimum supply voltage for the transmitter has been saved.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system designed to optimize power efficiency and performance in wireless communication devices. The transceiver includes a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter is configured to dynamically adjust its operating parameters based on supply voltage conditions. The system addresses the problem of inefficient power usage and potential performance degradation in transceivers when operating under varying voltage conditions, particularly in battery-powered or low-power applications. The transceiver monitors the supply voltage and enters a test mode when a configuration change occurs, such as adjustments to transmission parameters or power settings. In test mode, the transmitter evaluates the minimum supply voltage required to maintain stable operation. Once this minimum voltage is determined and stored, the transceiver exits test mode and returns to normal operation. This ensures that the transmitter operates at the lowest viable voltage, reducing power consumption without compromising performance. The system may also include a receiver configured to adjust its gain or other parameters based on signal strength or interference levels, further optimizing energy efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in portable or IoT devices where power efficiency is critical, as it dynamically adapts to voltage fluctuations while maintaining reliable communication. The transceiver may also include additional features such as error detection and correction mechanisms to enhance data integrity during transmission.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The transceiver of claim 10 , wherein the transmitter is configured to enter into test mode when a carrier frequency allocation of the transceiver is changed and to return into normal mode after the minimum supply voltage for the transmitter has been saved.

Plain English Translation

A transceiver system is designed to optimize power efficiency in wireless communication devices by dynamically adjusting transmitter operation based on carrier frequency allocation changes. The system includes a transmitter that can switch between normal and test modes to ensure reliable operation while minimizing power consumption. When the carrier frequency allocation of the transceiver is modified, the transmitter automatically enters a test mode to verify system stability and performance under the new frequency settings. During this mode, the transmitter evaluates the minimum supply voltage required to maintain proper functionality. Once the minimum voltage is confirmed and saved, the transmitter transitions back to normal mode, ensuring efficient power usage without compromising signal integrity. This approach prevents unnecessary power drain during frequency adjustments while maintaining communication reliability. The system is particularly useful in battery-powered devices where energy efficiency is critical, such as mobile phones, IoT sensors, and other wireless communication equipment. By automating the voltage adjustment process, the transceiver reduces manual intervention and enhances operational robustness.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The transceiver of claim 10 , further comprising a Digital to Analog Converter in the transmitter, the Digital to Analog Converter being configured to provide an analog representation of a digital baseband signal, wherein the supply voltage is used for the Digital to Analog Converter.

Plain English Translation

A transceiver system includes a transmitter and receiver for wireless communication, with a power management circuit that dynamically adjusts the supply voltage to the transmitter based on the signal characteristics of the transmitted data. The transmitter converts digital baseband signals into analog signals for transmission, and the receiver processes received analog signals to extract digital data. The power management circuit monitors the transmitter's output signal and adjusts the supply voltage to optimize power efficiency while maintaining signal integrity. The transceiver further includes a Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) in the transmitter, which converts digital baseband signals into analog representations. The DAC operates using the dynamically adjusted supply voltage from the power management circuit, ensuring efficient power usage while supporting high-quality signal conversion. This design reduces overall power consumption by adapting the supply voltage to the specific requirements of the transmitted signal, particularly benefiting battery-powered devices in wireless communication systems. The system is applicable in various wireless communication standards, including but not limited to cellular, Wi-Fi, and IoT applications.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The transceiver of claim 10 , further comprising an Analog to Digital Converter in the receiver, the Analog to Digital Converter being configured to provide a digital representation of an analog baseband signal, wherein the supply voltage is used for the Analog to Digital Converter.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system, specifically addressing power efficiency and signal processing in wireless communication devices. The transceiver includes a receiver with an Analog to Digital Converter (ADC) that converts an analog baseband signal into a digital representation. The ADC operates using a supply voltage that is also utilized for other components within the transceiver, optimizing power consumption by sharing the voltage source. The transceiver further includes a transmitter with a power amplifier that adjusts its output power based on a control signal, ensuring efficient power usage while maintaining signal integrity. The system may also incorporate a voltage regulator to stabilize the supply voltage for the ADC and other components, enhancing performance under varying operating conditions. The design aims to reduce power dissipation and improve energy efficiency in wireless communication devices by integrating power management features into the transceiver architecture.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The transceiver of claim 10 , further comprising a Local Oscillator circuit configured to provide at least one Local oscillator signal, wherein the supply voltage is used for the Local Oscillator.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a transceiver system, specifically addressing power efficiency and signal generation in wireless communication devices. The transceiver includes a power management circuit that dynamically adjusts the supply voltage to optimize power consumption based on operating conditions. The system also incorporates a Local Oscillator (LO) circuit that generates at least one local oscillator signal, with the supply voltage being used to power this oscillator. The LO circuit is critical for frequency conversion in the transceiver, enabling upconversion and downconversion of signals in radio frequency (RF) communication. By integrating the LO circuit with the power management system, the transceiver can maintain stable signal generation while minimizing energy use, particularly in battery-powered devices. The design ensures that the LO operates efficiently under varying voltage conditions, reducing power waste and improving overall system performance. This approach is particularly useful in modern wireless devices where power efficiency and reliable signal processing are essential.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The transceiver of claim 10 , further comprising a variable supply voltage generator configured to generate the variable supply voltage.

Plain English Translation

A transceiver system is designed to optimize power consumption in wireless communication devices by dynamically adjusting the supply voltage to a power amplifier based on operating conditions. The system includes a power amplifier that amplifies a radio frequency (RF) signal for transmission, a variable supply voltage generator that produces a variable supply voltage for the power amplifier, and a controller that adjusts the supply voltage based on factors such as transmission power requirements, signal modulation type, and environmental conditions. The controller monitors these factors and dynamically adjusts the supply voltage to balance power efficiency and performance, reducing energy waste during low-power or low-modulation-index transmissions. The variable supply voltage generator provides the necessary voltage levels to the power amplifier, ensuring efficient operation across different scenarios. This approach enhances battery life in portable devices by minimizing unnecessary power consumption while maintaining signal integrity. The system is particularly useful in mobile communication devices where power efficiency is critical.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. A method for determining a minimum supply voltage for a receiver, comprising: setting the supply voltage of the receiver to a start value; supplying a test signal to the receiver; lowering the supply voltage until a level of a test signal within the receiver falls below a receiver threshold; and storing the supply voltage corresponding to the receiver threshold as the minimum supply voltage for the receiver.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to determining the minimum supply voltage required for a receiver circuit to function properly. The problem addressed is the need to identify the lowest possible supply voltage that still allows the receiver to operate correctly, which is important for power efficiency in electronic systems. The method involves dynamically adjusting the supply voltage to find the threshold where the receiver's performance degrades. The process begins by setting the receiver's supply voltage to an initial value. A test signal is then supplied to the receiver while the supply voltage is gradually reduced. The voltage is lowered incrementally until the test signal's level within the receiver falls below a predefined threshold, indicating the receiver can no longer process the signal accurately. The supply voltage at this point is recorded as the minimum operational voltage for the receiver. This approach ensures the receiver operates at the lowest possible voltage while maintaining functionality, optimizing power consumption. The method may also include additional steps such as verifying the receiver's performance at the determined minimum voltage or adjusting the test signal parameters to refine the measurement. The technique is applicable to various receiver designs, including those used in communication systems, sensors, or other low-power electronic devices. By dynamically determining the minimum supply voltage, the invention helps reduce energy usage without compromising performance.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The method of claim 19 , wherein lowering the supply voltage comprises: decreasing the supply voltage in finite steps until the level of the test signal within the receiver falls below the receiver threshold due to a transition between a preceding step and a present step; and storing the supply voltage of the preceding step as the minimum supply voltage for the receiver.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to optimizing power consumption in electronic receivers by dynamically adjusting the supply voltage to the lowest possible level that still ensures reliable signal reception. The problem addressed is the excessive power consumption in receivers when operating at fixed supply voltages that are higher than necessary for maintaining signal integrity. The method involves applying a test signal to the receiver and monitoring the signal level relative to a predefined receiver threshold. The supply voltage is gradually decreased in finite steps until the test signal level falls below the threshold, indicating a failure in signal reception. The supply voltage from the preceding step, where the signal was still above the threshold, is then stored as the minimum required supply voltage for the receiver. This ensures the receiver operates at the lowest possible voltage while maintaining signal integrity, thereby reducing power consumption. The method may also include periodically repeating the voltage adjustment process to account for variations in operating conditions, such as temperature or signal quality. Additionally, the test signal may be generated internally within the receiver or provided externally, and the adjustment steps may be linear or non-linear in nature. The stored minimum supply voltage can be used to configure the receiver's power supply or to inform power management decisions in the system. This approach is particularly useful in low-power applications where energy efficiency is critical.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

June 30, 2020

Inventors

Josef Holzleitner

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